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Easy Crunchy Cabbage Salad with Zesty Vinaigrette

Close-up of a vibrant, freshly dressed cabbage salad featuring shredded green and purple cabbage.

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You need a simple, crisp side dish that brightens up any meal. This **healthy slaw recipe** uses a light, tangy vinaigrette instead of heavy mayonnaise, making it perfect for picnics, BBQs, or quick weeknight dinners. It is ready in minutes and delivers satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

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  • 6 cups shredded green and purple cabbage mix
  • 2 medium carrots, julienned
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Place the shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until the dressing emulsifies slightly.
  3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything well until the vegetables are evenly coated.
  4. Rest (optional but recommended): For the best flavor, let the **vinegar based cabbage salad** sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb the dressing.
  5. Finish: Stir in the fresh parsley, if using, just before serving.

Notes

  • For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make this a main dish cabbage salad.
  • If you are meal prepping, keep the dressing separate and toss just before eating to maintain maximum crunch.
  • This salad is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.

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